Why Chelsea should keep hold of Olivier Giroud amidst Inter Milan interest
As per Gazzetta Dello Sport (h/t Daily Mail), Serie A side Inter Milan are interested in signing Chelsea outcast Olivier Giroud in the summer.
Giroud, 33, made a name for himself in the Premier League with Arsenal. He made 253 appearances for the North Londoners, helping them lift the FA Cup thrice. Since his move to Stamford Bridge in 2018, he has been a regular for the Blues. But this season, he has seen limited game-time under new boss Frank Lampard.
The Frenchman has featured in just 13 games across all competitions this term. He could be on the move with several clubs including Antonio Conte’s Inter Milan interested in him, as per the report.
Meanwhile, Frank Lampard has done a stellar job in his first term as the Blues’ boss despite having limited options and a young side at his disposal. Though defensively Chelsea have not been at their best, the midfield and the attacking unit has been lively so far.
The young guns like Tammy Abraham, Mason Mount, Reece James and Callum Hudson-Odoi have all been supported well by the senior players in the squad. Abraham has taken the league by storm and is one of the leading goalscorers in the league with 13 to his name.
The English international has led the line for the majority of the campaign with Giroud and Michy Batshuayi falling out of favour under Lampard.
Giroud, though, made good use of his limited opportunities in the latter stages of the season before the league got suspended. Batshuayi, on the other hand, has failed to impress and has been left on the bench for quite a long time.
Thus, keeping hold of Olivier Giroud would be a wise decision by the club as the Frenchman would provide valuable cover in Abraham’s absence.
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Giroud has a proven record in the Premier League and would be a crucial player for Chelsea with his experience. He has made 507 career appearances, scoring 203 goals and providing 80 assists. One of the most experienced campaigners in the squad, Giroud’s experience would be vital in the next season.
Verdict
At 33, the former Arsenal man may not be in his prime. But Giroud can provide Chelsea valuable cover and much-needed extra goals in demanding situations. Thus, the Blues should avoid attraction from the Serie A giants and keep him at Stamford Bridge.
